What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have an BMW, chances are that your key fob is equipped with numerous functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, manage your windows, and even start the engine.
There are a few tricks you might not know about. Here are some of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangle of plastic that has many buttons incorporated in its side. Most of these buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, and certain buttons have additional functions. For example, BMW owners can activate an invisible function on their key fob to lower all of their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for people who wish to cool down their vehicle during a hot summer's day.
Another significant benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a fantastic safety precaution and prevents unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first turn off the lock on the key fob and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to remotely start the car. This feature is particularly useful when a driver is late for work and doesn't have time to turn the door.
Lastly, the BMW key fob may also be used to control the car's interior climate system. This is particularly helpful for people who travel with multiple people, since it is possible to set each individual's preferred temperature using their own key fob. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to monitor the battery's charging status.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. It's a good idea to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a service can be offered to deactivate it, making it inaccessible to thieves. This can be done by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. You can purchase a replacement BMW key fob to re-establish the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were once large black, clunky rectangles that looked a bit like a bottle opener from the distance. They were basic, but they served a purpose. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it look better and less like an opener for keys. The new design also reduced rough edges on the key that could poke into pockets or bags, and made the keys more comfortable to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car in your palm. The BMW key fob comes with a small LCD screen that lets you lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning, and access the information about your vehicle. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are an excellent replacement option if you have to replace your BMW key fob. You can unlock your car with your smartphone when you own an appropriate model. This feature is available for 2021 or later BMW cars that use the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another cool new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that allows you to start your car and use certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely manage your car's climate control and check battery levels. You can even check how much gas is left in your tank, if the car is equipped with that feature.
If you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting an replacement is the same. Our technicians will help you in the process if you bring both the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover the cost of replacement in the event that your keys are lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing to do is reset the key. This erases all programming and render it unusable. This is done by turning the key from position one and back quickly, five times in the same row. Then, turn it back to position zero and take off the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a efficient method to start your vehicle. The fob is compatible with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle or start the engine and much more. You can also share the key with five others.
The key fob communicates encrypted signals to the vehicle. It is therefore impossible for hackers and cloners to get the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even if the device is moving. The system uses an alarm to block unauthorised starting and disables the ignition switch.
BMW offers a variety of optional security features. Passive Start is one feature that will disable the starter motor if the key fob does remain close to your car. This feature is available on all models of the brand and provides additional security.
Many of the more advanced BMW models have keyless access that lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having to manually press any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in just one second. In certain situations, you may need to press the lock button on the fob three times, and then turn on an additional remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a bag that blocks signals. This reduces the chance that a third party broadcasts the identifying code from the fob in order to gain access to the vehicle. Some people prefer to use an ordinary case that does not come with the feature, but it still protects the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were snatched by criminals who used signal amplifiers to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This kind of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping the key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by installing a signal blocker app on your phone.
Replacement
Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you need to buy a spare one for a family. It's simple and inexpensive to get a replacement BMW fob, and program it into your vehicle. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650 based on the model of BMW you drive.
Make sure there is no other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming the new keyfob. Also, close all doors in your vehicle. Then, insert your new key fob in the ignition and switch it to position 1, then return to position 0 five times rapidly. Hold down the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you have completed this, remove the key and turn on the car. The vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you may have keys that have a key blade that is physically inside it, or a fob without one. Each key fob has its own process for synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is the metal key fob will need to be placed into the ignition to start your car.
If you own an BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. After you've programmed the new key fob, simply insert it into the ignition of your BMW and press the start button.
It is essential to ensure that your BMW key fob in good condition. If you are looking for an entirely new BMW key fob, or a replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you select the best key fob for your bmw keys replacement needs and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.